Want to know the secret to achieving perfectly crispy crust on Cast Iron Chicken Thighs with minimal effort? This recipe is a game-changer for family dinners. Use our Chipotle Seasoning Recipe to make it super tasty or add your own favorite seasoning blend.
Chicken thighs are a staple in many kitchens, offering a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The cast iron skillet ensures even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat every time. This recipe is ideal for busy parents looking for a quick and tasty dish to serve to their families.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Crispy Skin: Achieve perfectly crispy skin with the cast iron skillet.
- Juicy Meat: Bone-in, skin-on thighs stay moist and flavorful.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and pre-mixed seasoning.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
If you like this cast iron skillet recipe, you may also love our Cast Iron Salmon or our Cast Iron Pork Chops.
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What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on for the best flavor and texture.
- Chipotle Seasoning: A pre-mixed blend that adds a smoky, spicy kick.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors.
- Olive Oil: Helps to crisp up the skin and prevent sticking.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make Cast Iron Chicken Thighs
STEP ONE: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks and the skin gets crispy.
STEP TWO: Season the Chicken
- Rub the chicken thighs with chipotle seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
STEP THREE: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
STEP FOUR: Roast the Chicken
- Flip the chicken thighs and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Chipotle Seasoning: Substitute with Cajun seasoning or your favorite seasoning blend.
- Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or canola oil.
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs or drumsticks can be used, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet: Make it low-sodium by using a salt-free seasoning blend.
- Flavor: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.
- Spice: Increase the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- Cast iron skillet
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Oven mitts
How Should You Store This?
Store leftover cast iron chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
For the crispiest skin, make sure the chicken thighs are completely dry before seasoning.
Sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet without moving them to get a perfect golden crust.
To reheat, avoid the microwave as it will soften the skin; instead, use the oven to keep it crispy.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover thighs in a hearty soup.
- Cut up leftover chicken and add it to this Chicken, Avocado, and Egg Salad.
- Add shredded chicken to Sheet Pan Nachos with your favorite toppings.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes would make a perfect side for a complete meal.
- Grilled Summer Squash, Asparagus, and Potatoes would pair well with this dish.
- Try our Easy Chipotle Pinto Beans Recipe in the Instant Pot
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Cast Iron Skillet Steak
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet
- Pan-Seared Salmon
- Cast Iron Salmon
Related
More chicken recipes you will love:
FAQ
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as boneless thighs cook faster.
Your skillet should be properly preheated on medium-high heat before adding the chicken. Make sure the chicken skin is dry before placing it in the skillet to achieve a good sear and prevent sticking.
Make sure the chicken thighs are at room temperature and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and avoid moving them for the first 5-7 minutes to develop a crispy, golden-brown skin.
📖 Recipe
Cast Iron Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Tongs
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons chipotle seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rub the chipotle seasoning, salt, and black pepper all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Chipotle Seasoning: Substitute with Cajun seasoning or your favorite seasoning blend.
- Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or canola oil.
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs or drumsticks can be used, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Nutrition
This recipe for cast iron chicken thighs delivers crispy, flavorful results every time. Give it a try, share your results, and explore our related posts for more recipes.
Important Food Safety Tips
Always handle raw chicken with care to avoid cross-contamination. Wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly after contact with raw chicken. Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Create a clean work area.
- Wash hands after touching raw meat or seafood.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds.
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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